New outdoor recreation action plan for Northern Ireland - DAERA
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is currently working on co-designing a new outdoor recreation action plan for Northern Ireland.
The department has partnered with Outscape to develop the strategy.
Outscape is a not-for-profit organisation which works to make it easier for people to responsibly enjoy the outdoors.
It supports policy development, evidence gathering, outdoor recreation planning, trails and greenspace development, training and participation programmes.
DAERA
Outscape will be supported by the DAERA’s environment fund to carry out its work on the action plan.
One of the priorities under the Environmental Improvement Plan for Northern Ireland is to connect people to the environment.
Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Andrew Muir will also be seeking nominations for a refreshed Strategic Outdoor Recreation Group.
This group will provide the strategic coordination, action, and targeted investment to develop and deliver the action plan.
The department will also work to support local councils to develop and deliver community trail networks and a green/blue places plan in all district council areas.
Outdoor recreation
Minister Muir said that engaging in the natural environment is "fundamental to good health and well-being with clear benefits for physical and mental health".
"However, it is clear that action is needed on improving access to nature.
"Outscape’s recently published People and the Outdoors Monitor (POMNI) found 80% of people would like to spend more of their free time outdoors, with just over half of those surveyed finding local green spaces easy to get to without a car.
"I was heartened to read in the survey that many people would like to have greater involvement in developing and maintaining local green spaces.
"As part of this process, we will be engaging with key stakeholders to co-design a new outdoor recreation action plan to ensure we strike the right balance between the needs of landowners, local people, tourists and the environment," he said.
Collaboration
Minister Muir also recognised the "significant collaboration, planning and resourcing" by multiple agencies and organisations in developing and managing green and blue space and trails for outdoor recreation.
"By working together, we can create high-quality natural spaces that are accessible, welcoming and sustainable, ensuring everyone can enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation for years to come," he added.
Dawson Stelfox MBE, chairperson of Outscape, said the organisation welcomes the opportunity to work on the new action plan.
"This important work will help to move from ambition to delivery, with a clear focus and commitment on practical, implementable actions that will improve access to nature and support people, landowners, communities, and places across Northern Ireland.
"We look forward to engaging constructively with DAERA and wider stakeholders to help co-design the action plan that is practical, inclusive and focused on delivering measurable and sustainable change on the ground," he said.
